On the Beat with Steve Fireovid-Part 2

Yesterday, I posted the first part of a Q&A I had with former pitcher Steve Fireovid.  Today, I am presenting the second part.

Q-How did your book, The 26th Man, come to be?
SF-The 26th Man was really meant to represent a whole lot of players, not just me.  There were (and are) so many people who were never really given the opportunity truly deserved.  I think I pointed out in the book that this is true of most professions -- not just baseball players.  I was at the point in my career where I knew I could speak with a bit of authority on the matter and I probably heard a dozen players every year say, "I should write a book about all of this crap."  So I did.  I've always been at ease with writing,so I felt comfortable doing it.  It was a nice summer project and I had the kind of year on the field to easily justify my point.

Q-What is your favorite vacation spot?
SF-My favorite vacation spot is virtually anywhere that is not here.  For me, it's more about what I'm leaving and who I'll be spending time with than where I'm going.  Don't get me wrong though-- given a choice between Toledo and a nice condo on the ocean, I'll take the water.

I have read The 26th Man a few times over the years.  I am also one of a few people who reviewed it on Amazon.  I thought it was a great book.  It had laughs, honesty, great stories and interesting insight into baseball, life and Steve himself.  I have read a lot of books, specifically many autobiographies and The 26th Man is one of the best.
I really appreciate Steve taking time to answer my questions. I followed Steve's career, collected his cards (although I wish he had a White Sox card!) and read his book.  I had a lot of fun following him through the years.  It means a lot that Steve would take the time to thoughtfully answer my questions.  I am an even bigger fan of his now!

On the Beat with Steve Fireovid-Part 1

Steve Fireovid was drafted by the San Diego Padres in 1978 and made his major league debut with them in 1981.  He pitched for 5 teams during his 6 seasons.  As a long time fan of his, I was happy when he pitched (although only briefly) for my hometown Chicago White Sox in 1985.
His time in the majors was fairly short, but his pro baseball career was lengthy and successful.  During parts of 16 seasons in the minors, he had an impressive record of 139-98.  His 1990 season with the Indianapolis Indians is the subject of The 26th Man, a book he wrote back in 1991.  It is a season long diary, with good stories and a candid look at his career and life.
I recently contacted Fireovid to ask him a few questions.  Below is the first part of my exchange with Fireovid.

Q-What have you been doing since you retired?
SF-Since retiring in 1993, I've been a financial adviser in my hometown of Bryan, OH.  In 2000, I formed Fireovid Financial Group, Ltd.  It's a far cry from baseball, but I imagine most any occupation would be.  I am involved in the community in areas I feel strongly about, but enjoy being a homebody for the most part.  I certainly do not miss the travel associated with baseball.

Q-How did it feel to see your first card and to be asked for an autograph?
SF-I was pretty gracious when it came to autographs.  In fact, I still get several a week in the mail and try to promptly return them.  I think the first time I was asked for one, I just thought to myself, "Why would anyone want my signature?"  I still do feel that way, but that's a whole different and deeper conversation.  My first card was bittersweet.  I'm no male model, but it may be the worst picture I've ever seen.

Q-Do you know which pitcher gave up your first major league hit?
SF-Rick Mahler of the Braves.  I hit a groundball up the middle.  I do have to admit feeling justified even if only to myself.

For the record, Fireovid's first hit came on Sept. 12, 1981, in his second at bat (he struck out in his first).  Fireovid came up in the top of the fifth with nobody on base and no outs.  Joe Lefebvre had just cleared the bases with a home run to put the Padres ahead 4-1.  Ozzie Smith, Gene Richards and Ruppert Jones all made outs and stranded Fireovid on base.
I thought Fireovid would remember his first hit.  So many times,players have vivid memories and specifically pitchers about their hitting.
Check back tomorrow for Part 2.  Until then, check out some of his other cards.

On the Beat With Gus Gerard

Gus Gerard played 7 seasons in the ABA/NBA.  He made the ABA All-Rookie team and later made the 1976 ABA All-Star game.  Gerard retired after the 1980-81 season with the San Antonio Spurs, leaving with a career average of 8.4 ppg.  He was born in Uniontown (PA) and remains a big Steelers fan.  He was originally drafted by the NBA's Portland Trailblazers, but signed with the ABA's Spirits of St. Louis instead.
While he accomplished a lot on the basketball court, he is accomplishing even more now off the court.  After overcoming his own drug problems, Gerard became a licensed chemical dependency counselor.

I contacted Gerard and he was gracious enough to answer my questions.

Q-How did it feel to see yourself on a basketball card and to sign your first autograph?
GG-I remember thinking of all the cards I used to have and never thought that I would someday be on a card. I still get people send me them to sign and return, it was great.

Q-Which team did you enjoy the most as a player?
GG-Kansas City Kings and Denver Nuggets.

Q-Do you keep in contact with any former teammates?
GG-Yes at retired players meetings and a lot live in Houston.

Q-You have accomplished so much, have turned your life around and are helping so many. What's next for you?
GG-My passion is to speak to H.S., college, and others who suffer from the disease of addiction, telling my personal story of recovery and giving them hope.  Next is just to continue to do what I'm doing now, helping others.

Q-Where was/is your favorite city to visit?
GG-Boston, San Diego, and San Antonio.

Q-You have done so much on and off the court. Have you ever considered writing a book?

GG-Not really, but I've some people tell me I should.

A final important message from Gerard:
If anyone needs help for themselves or others, please go to www.directionsofrecovery.com. I would be glad to talk to them or guide them to a place they can get treatment.